Anna Haining Bates

Anna Swan with her parents

Anna Haining Bates (née Swan; August 6, 1846 – August 5, 1888) was a Canadian woman famed for her great stature. She reached a height of 7 feet 11 inches (2.41 meters), making her one of the tallest women in recorded history. Born in Millbrook, Nova Scotia, her remarkable height was noted from an early age, and by her 17th birthday, she was reported to be over 7 feet (213 cm) tall.

Early Life

Anna Haining Swan was born to Scottish immigrants in Nova Scotia. Her parents were of average height, and her exceptional growth was attributed to a condition known as gigantism, which is often caused by an overproduction of growth hormone. Her family's farm life was typical of the era, but Anna's extraordinary height made her the subject of much curiosity and admiration.

Career

In 1862, Anna's unique stature caught the attention of P.T. Barnum, a showman known for promoting unusual attractions. She was recruited to appear at the Barnum's American Museum in New York City, where she became one of the most popular attractions, billed as "The Nova Scotia Giant Girl." Her performances involved showcasing her height, strength, and the specially made furniture and clothing that accommodated her size.

Personal Life

In 1871, Anna married Martin Van Buren Bates, another individual of exceptional height, standing at 7 feet 9 inches (2.36 meters). The couple was billed as "The Tallest Married Couple in the World." They settled in Seville, Ohio, where they built a house with custom-sized doorways and ceilings to accommodate their heights. Their first child, a daughter, was born in 1872 but died at birth. In 1879, they had a son who was the largest newborn ever recorded at the time, weighing 22 pounds (10 kg) and measuring 28 inches (71 cm) in length, but he also died shortly after birth.

Legacy

Anna Haining Bates passed away on August 5, 1888, a day before her 42nd birthday. Her life and marriage to Martin Van Buren Bates left a lasting legacy in the annals of medical and social history. The couple's story has been featured in various documentaries and books, highlighting their unique contributions to the understanding of human growth and the challenges faced by those with extraordinary physical characteristics.

See Also

• Gigantism
• P.T. Barnum
• Barnum's American Museum